🍁 Vermont Victim Rights & Resources
If you are a survivor of abuse, crime, or professional misconduct in Vermont, this guide is here to help you understand your legal rights, report wrongdoing, and access state and VOCA-funded resources to support healing and justice.
⛔️ This guide is not a substitute for legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or reach out to a crisis hotline listed on our Support and Help page. While we strive to provide accurate, current information, laws and agency procedures may change. Always verify details directly with official sources or consult a licensed attorney in your area.
📜 Your Rights Under Vermont Law
Under Vermont law and the state constitution, victims have the right to:
- Be treated with dignity and respect
- Be notified of court proceedings and offender status
- Be present and heard at sentencing and parole hearings
- Confer with prosecutors and request restitution
- Receive protection from intimidation and retaliation
🔗 Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services – Rights & Laws 🔗 Vermont Constitution – Chapter I, Article 9
📂 Public Records & Documentation
You may request:
- Police incident and investigation reports
- Court filings and sentencing records
- Audio/video recordings (when available)
💡 Use the Vermont Public Records Act (PRA) to file requests. Submit in writing and retain all responses and confirmations.
🏥 Requesting Medical Records
You can request:
- Your own medical records
- Records of a dependent or deceased person (with proper authorization)
🔗 How to File a HIPAA Complaint – HHS.gov
🧑⚕️ Reporting Licensed Healthcare Providers
Vermont Board of Medical Practice:
https://www.healthvermont.gov
Vermont Board of Nursing / Allied Mental Health:
https://sos.vermont.gov
Facility Complaints – Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging & Independent Living:
https://dail.vermont.gov
⚠️ Keep a copy of all complaints, emails, and confirmation receipts.
💰 Victim Compensation in Vermont
The Vermont Victim Compensation Program helps survivors pay for expenses resulting from violent crime.
Covered costs include:
- Medical and mental health treatment
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost wages or support
- Relocation and security upgrades
Eligibility Requirements:
- Report the crime within 5 days (or show good cause)
- File a claim within 3 years of the incident
- Cooperate with law enforcement
🔗 Vermont Victim Compensation Program 📞 Phone: 1-800-750-1213
🤝 VOCA-Funded Services in Vermont
VOCA support is coordinated through the Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services.
🔗 Vermont VOCA Assistance 📞 General Info: (802) 241-1250
No matter your story, you have rights. The Novel Advocate is here to make sure you’re seen, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
🍁 From maple groves to marble halls, Vermont survivors — your truth is rooted in strength.
